FARMINGTON -- A longtime educator and his wife, the director of a health-care program for people in Franklin County who need health insurance, will lead the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area in its 29th annual campaign this fall.

Chandler and Charlene "Charlie" Woodcock of Farmington will be the new campaign chairs, United Way's executive director Lisa Laflin said Monday.

Chandler Woodcock was a teacher and basketball coach. He ran for governor against Gov. John Baldacci in 2006. Charlie Woodcock is the director of Franklin Health Access, a program of Franklin Community Health Network that helps residents who have no health insurance or who are underinsured to get the care they need.

Laflin said the Woodcocks are well-known in the community and have the experience and expertise to help the agency reach a campaign goal of $395,000.

"The board of the United Way and I are thrilled to have such compassionate and skilled community members help us raise funds that greatly impact our surrounding communities," Laflin said.

Funds are allocated to two dozen health and social service agencies including SeniorsPlus, Literacy Volunteers, Western Maine Community Action, and the Franklin County Children's Task Force.

This year's Campaign kick-off will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 17 in the North Dining Hall at the University of Maine at Farmington. There will be free hot dogs, light hors d'oeuvres, and music by Native Oak.

Laflin said the chapter has undergone a rigorous assessment process this year to prioritize where the money is going.

"It is focusing on immediate human needs, including fuel, food, housing, medication and clothing. Additionally, it will allocate resources to programs that serve the elderly and children, those that promote well-being through free health screenings, education, home care and mental health support as well as programs that provide transportation services," Laflin said.

"In a challenging economic climate, the need to invest in our surrounding communities is even greater. This year's campaign represents an unprecedented opportunity to make a significant difference," she said.